Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Florida?
No — UK citizens need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), not a full visa. It costs $21, is valid for 2 years, and covers visits of up to 90 days. Apply online at the official CBP government website at least 72 hours before departure.
How long is the flight from the UK to Florida?
Direct flights from London to Orlando or Miami are approximately 9-10 hours. Manchester and other UK airports also offer direct flights, particularly during peak season. The return flight is usually slightly shorter due to prevailing winds.
What time zone is Florida in?
Most of Florida is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), which is 5 hours behind GMT (4 hours behind during British Summer Time). The Florida Panhandle (the western strip near Alabama) is in the Central Time Zone, 6 hours behind GMT.
Do I need a hire car in Florida?
Almost certainly yes, unless you're staying exclusively in a walkable city area (South Beach, central Key West). Florida's cities are spread out and public transport is limited compared to the UK. Hiring a car is affordable and roads are straightforward.
Which side of the road do they drive on?
The right side — opposite to the UK. It feels strange for the first 20 minutes, then becomes natural. Wide American roads make it easier than you'd expect. The biggest risk is turning into the wrong lane at junctions — stay alert at turns.
Should I tip in restaurants?
Yes, always. 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is expected at sit-down restaurants. 20% is standard for good service. American service workers depend on tips — their base wage can be as low as $2.13 per hour. Not tipping is considered extremely rude.
What's the best time of year to visit Florida?
November to April offers the best weather — warm, dry, and comfortable (20-28°C). It's peak season with higher prices. May-June and October are excellent shoulder seasons with lower prices and good weather. July-September is hot, humid, and the cheapest, but daily thunderstorms and hurricane risk are factors.
Is Florida safe for tourists?
Generally yes. Tourist areas are well-policed and safe. Standard travel precautions apply: don't leave valuables visible in cars, be aware of your surroundings in unfamiliar areas at night, and secure your hotel room. Florida's wildlife (alligators, snakes, jellyfish) requires respect but rarely poses a threat to alert visitors.
How much spending money do I need per day?
A rough daily budget per person (excluding accommodation and park tickets):
- Budget: $50-80 (fast food, free activities, self-catering some meals)
- Mid-range: $100-150 (restaurant meals, a paid activity or two)
- Comfortable: $150-250+ (good restaurants, multiple activities, shopping)
Remember to factor in tips (15-20%) and sales tax (6-7.5%), which aren't included in listed prices.
Can I use my UK mobile phone in Florida?
Yes, but check your plan. Many UK networks include US roaming (Three, EE, Vodafone on certain plans), but data limits and charges vary. Free Wi-Fi is available almost everywhere — hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, theme parks.
What plug adapter do I need?
US sockets are 120V, Type A/B (two flat pins). You need a UK-to-US plug adapter. Most phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage (110-240V) and work fine with just an adapter. Hair dryers and straighteners may need a voltage converter — check the label on the device.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
Yes, throughout Florida. It may taste slightly different from UK water (some areas have a mild mineral taste from the limestone aquifer), but it's safe. You don't need to buy bottled water.
Can my children drink alcohol?
No. The legal drinking age in the US is 21 — no exceptions. This applies even in restaurants with parents present. Photo ID is required to purchase alcohol and is checked rigorously. British visitors who look under 30 should carry their passport.
What about healthcare?
There is no NHS in the US. American healthcare is expensive — a basic emergency room visit can cost $2,000-5,000 without insurance. Travel insurance with comprehensive medical cover is essential. Carry your insurance details with you at all times.
Do I need sun cream?
Absolutely. Florida's UV index is significantly higher than the UK, even in winter. SPF 30 minimum (SPF 50 recommended for fair skin). Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming. British visitors burn faster than they expect — the breeze can mask how strong the sun is.
What are sales tax and why isn't it on the price tag?
Florida sales tax (6-7.5%) is added at the till, not included in the displayed price. This is standard across the United States. A $20 item will cost approximately $21.40 at checkout. Restaurant meals, hotel rooms, and most purchases include sales tax on top of the listed price.
Can I bring food back to the UK?
Restrictions apply. Meat, dairy, and most fresh produce cannot be brought into the UK. Packaged, processed foods (sealed, labelled, commercially produced) are generally fine. Alcohol allowances: 1 litre of spirits plus 2 litres of wine. Check current HMRC rules before packing your suitcase full of Reese's cups.
What's the weather like in December and January?
Mild and pleasant by UK standards — typically 15-25°C in Central and South Florida. North Florida (Jacksonville) can be cooler (10-20°C). Rain is rare. It's the most comfortable time weather-wise, though it's peak tourist season. Evenings can feel cool, so pack a light jumper.
Are there any hidden costs I should know about?
Resort fees — Many Florida hotels charge a "resort fee" ($15-45 per night) on top of the room rate, often not included in the initial booking price. Check the total cost before booking. Parking — Theme parks charge $25-30 per day for parking. Tips — Budget an additional 15-20% for every restaurant meal. Tolls — If driving, toll road charges add up ($5-15 per day typically).
floriday.uk is an independent travel guide. Information is current at the time of writing. Always verify visa requirements, health advice, and travel rules with official sources before travelling.